Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that uses empathy, creativity, and experimentation to find innovative and effective solutions to complex problems. It was first developed by the design consultancy IDEO and has since become a popular methodology used in many industries, including healthcare, education, and technology.

The five stages of the design thinking process are: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.

1. Empathize: This stage is about understanding the problem from the user's perspective. It involves researching and understanding the needs, motivations, and pain points of the people who will be using the solution.

2. Define: In this stage, the problem is defined and framed in a way that can be addressed through design. This involves synthesizing the information gathered in the Empathize stage and turning it into a clear and concise problem statement.

3. Ideate: This stage is about generating as many potential solutions as possible. It involves using creativity and brainstorming to come up with as many ideas as possible, no matter how wild or unrealistic they may seem.

4. Prototype: In this stage, the most promising ideas from the Ideate stage are turned into physical or digital prototypes. These prototypes can then be tested and refined, allowing designers to see how their ideas work in the real world.

5. Test: This final stage involves testing the prototypes with users and gathering feedback. This feedback is used to refine and improve the design, making it as effective and user-friendly as possible.

Design thinking has been used to solve a variety of real-life problems, ranging from improving healthcare to creating more sustainable cities. One example is the development of a low-cost, portable artificial kidney device, which was designed using the principles of design thinking. The device is now in clinical trials and has the potential to revolutionize kidney dialysis for patients with chronic kidney disease.

Another example is the use of design thinking to create more sustainable cities. Designers have worked with city governments to understand the needs of residents and identify opportunities for making cities more environmentally friendly. This has led to the creation of innovative solutions, such as smart lighting systems that reduce energy consumption and improve public safety, and bike-friendly infrastructure that encourages sustainable transportation.

Design Thinking Workshops

Design thinking workshops are a structured, interactive and hands-on approach to exploring and solving problems. Participants work together to apply the design thinking process and techniques to a real-life problem. These workshops are a great way to learn about design thinking in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Examples of exercises

1. Empathy mapping: This exercise involves creating a visual representation of a user’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Participants are given a scenario and then use post-it notes to map out the user’s experience. This helps participants understand the user’s needs and motivations.

2. Prototyping: Participants work together to build a physical or digital representation of their solution to a problem. This exercise helps participants quickly test and refine their ideas.

3. Storyboarding: Participants create a visual representation of their solution in the form of a story. This exercise helps participants to articulate their solution in a clear and engaging way.

Sample problems

1. Improving the experience of public transportation: Participants work together to identify ways to improve the experience of taking public transportation. They might consider factors such as comfort, safety, and ease of use.

2. Creating a more sustainable office environment: Participants work together to identify ways to reduce the environmental impact of an office. They might consider factors such as energy usage, waste reduction, and recycling.

3. Improving the experience of grocery shopping: Participants work together to identify ways to improve the experience of grocery shopping. They might consider factors such as convenience, efficiency, and product selection.

These are just a few examples of the kinds of problems that can be tackled in a design thinking workshop. The key is to choose a problem that is relevant and meaningful to the participants, so that they are motivated to find a solution.

Explanation of how Design Thinking can be used to solve a problem:

Design thinking is a human-centered approach that starts by understanding the needs and perspectives of the people who will be impacted by the solution. This is followed by a rapid prototyping and testing process that allows for iterative improvements to be made. The goal is to create a solution that not only meets the needs of the user, but also delights them.

Real-life examples of Design Thinking being used:

One of the most well-known examples of design thinking being used to solve a real-life problem is the development of the Apple iPod. The iPod was created by taking a user-centered approach to music players, which were previously clunky and difficult to use. The designers at Apple empathized with the needs of music lovers and created a solution that was both functional and intuitive.

Another example is the creation of the compact and portable defibrillator, a life-saving device that can be used to revive someone suffering from cardiac arrest. Designers used empathy and creativity to design a defibrillator that was not only effective, but also easy to use and transport, making it possible for more people to save lives in emergency situations.

A few problems faced by young professionals in Sri Lanka that can be solved using Design Thinking:

1. Limited job opportunities in certain industries

2. Inefficient public transportation system

3. High cost of healthcare

4. Difficulty in accessing quality education

5. Housing affordability

6. Lack of physical activity and unhealthy lifestyle

7. Difficulty in starting and growing small businesses

8. Mental health issues and stress

9. Inadequate waste management and environmental pollution

10. Limited access to financial services and banking products.

Design thinking can be applied to these problems by first understanding the perspectives and needs of young professionals in Sri Lanka, and then prototyping and testing solutions that meet their needs. The iterative process of design thinking allows for continuous improvement and refinement, leading to innovative and effective solutions that can improve the quality of life for young professionals in Sri Lanka.

In conclusion, design thinking is a powerful tool for solving complex problems and creating innovative solutions. It encourages empathy and creativity, and uses a structured process to ensure that solutions are tested and refined until they are as effective and user-friendly as possible. Whether you're working in healthcare, education, or technology, design thinking can help you find solutions to the most pressing problems and improve people's lives.